Worried about bugs ruining your summer parties? Follow these directions on how to make your own all-natural room spray from aromatherapist Charlynn Avery to keep bugs away.

Summer is the perfect time for entertaining – the weather is nice, the days are long, and we feel a pull to the great outdoors. We can use our essential oils to help set the mood for entertaining (especially outdoors), and we can have a pleasant, aromatic experience that doesn’t include using harsh synthetics or chemical fragrances.

Essential oils are protective as well; they can be used to create a safe and aromatic barrier, much like candles and torches. You can use the essential oils in candle lamp diffusers outside, or in mist or spray form.

Here are two great recipes – one for indoors and one for outdoors – to try. Find more recipes like these at Aura Cacia and make the most of your summer entertaining!

Summertime Room Spray

Ingredients

4 ounces water
8 drops bergamot essential oil
8 drops lavender essential oil
small spray bottle

Directions

Combine oils and water in spray bottle. Shake well and liberally mist room air throughout your home.

Patio Spray

Ingredients

1 teaspoon grain alcohol or 1 teaspoon high-proof vodka
20 drops lemon eucalyptus essential oil
10 drops citronella essential oil
5 drops grapefruit essential oil
5 drops cedarwood essential oil or 5 drops Texas cedarwood essential oil
4 ounces distilled water
small spray bottle

Directions

Place alcohol in a spray-mister bottle. Add the essential oils and shake. Add water, shake and mist the atmosphere around your outdoor activities. Always shake well before use. Avoid spraying the skin, clothing or garden plants.